Using the Public Library for Bible Study

I still have a library card in my wallet but it’s been about two or three years since I’ve been in my local library.

The religious section in the public library in my town is filled with books that are unhelpful to any serious study of the Bible. Sure, there may be one or two that might be worthwhile in a general way but many of them are just plain junk.

It’s as if the people that buy the books and stock the shelves don’t know anything about Christianity or about studying Scripture.

My church’s public library is much better but tends to lack focus, as if the books are donated discards.

I’m fortunate in that there are a few seminaries in the region that offer a wealth of material.

Rob

 

I’m uncertain if suggestions about what books to purchase would be taken seriously by the staff of a public library.
The purchasing agent looks for books that will attract the most people.
In the religious section that would be controversial or outlandish material or material written by someone with a name that is widely known. That sometimes means someone that has been publicly disgraced or someone that is pushing a controversial opinion.

Regarding access: the seminary libraries near me (in southeastern Pennsylvania) generally allow the public into them but the recent COVID-19 restrictions have closed them now even to students.

Many of the larger libraries have online access, Princeton Theological Seminary, Eastern, Westminster....
It’s not as fun (or productive) visiting a library online but it can be done.

Rob

 

Try this, a ton of spiritual stuff is here!
Internet Archive: Digital Library of Free & Borrowable Books, Movies, Music & Wayback Machine

 

If there is a college, university or seminary near you (even a secular one with a theology department), then yes, I do believe they generally offer reader access to members of the public. Their library websites would probably have the information you need.

Aside from books, may I recommend the archives that are also available at academic institutions? If you have a special interest in mind, you will discover unique archives housed in various institutions which are well worth a visit. I am thinking of missionary archives containing letters, diaries and photos for example. I was privileged to be able to spend time in such archives as a student and was often moved to silent tears at what I was reading. It was as much food for the soul (if not more) as an ordinary devotional book!

 

I realise I'm late to the party and most people here probably already use it, but I recently signed up for the free version of Logos: Logos 9 Basic—Free Bible Software. I'm not sure whether I can make much use of it yet, but once you've subscribed to the free version you can then go about purchasing the many free or discounted books available to read through Logos from their website. A good option if you're wanting free or cheap access online.